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The Subaru BRZ is known for its lightweight design and excellent handling capabilities, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts and track day participants. If you’re looking to enhance your BRZ’s performance on road courses without breaking the bank, there are several modifications you can make that will significantly improve your cornering ability. In this article, we will explore the best road course setup mods for the Subaru BRZ that can help you achieve up to a 40% better cornering performance for under $1,000.
1. Upgraded Suspension Components
One of the most impactful upgrades you can make to your Subaru BRZ is enhancing the suspension system. A well-tuned suspension will improve handling, reduce body roll, and provide better feedback during cornering.
- Coilovers: Investing in a set of adjustable coilovers allows you to customize the ride height and damping settings, providing optimal performance on the track.
- Anti-roll Bars: Upgrading to stiffer anti-roll bars will help minimize body roll during turns, allowing for sharper cornering.
2. Performance Tires
The tires are the only contact point between your car and the road, making them crucial for performance. Choosing the right tires can drastically enhance your cornering grip.
- Summer Tires: Opt for high-performance summer tires that provide better traction and handling in dry conditions.
- Proper Sizing: Ensure that you select the correct tire size for your wheels to maximize performance.
3. Brake Upgrades
Improving your braking system is essential for better cornering performance. Enhanced brakes allow for later braking points and improved control during turns.
- Performance Brake Pads: Upgrade to high-friction brake pads that can withstand higher temperatures without fading.
- Slotted Rotors: Installing slotted rotors can help improve cooling and reduce brake fade during intense driving.
4. Weight Reduction
Reducing weight can significantly improve your BRZ’s handling. A lighter car is more agile and responsive in corners.
- Remove Unnecessary Components: Strip out any non-essential parts, such as rear seats or sound deadening material.
- Lightweight Wheels: Consider swapping to lighter alloy wheels to reduce unsprung weight.
5. Alignment Adjustments
Proper wheel alignment is critical for maximizing your BRZ’s handling characteristics. Adjusting camber, toe, and caster settings can lead to better cornering performance.
- Negative Camber: Adding negative camber can improve grip during cornering by increasing the tire’s contact patch.
- Toe Settings: Adjusting toe settings can help with steering response and stability during turns.
6. Engine Tuning
While cornering performance is primarily influenced by suspension and tires, a well-tuned engine can provide the necessary power to exit corners effectively.
- ECU Tune: A simple ECU remap can unlock additional horsepower and torque, improving acceleration out of corners.
- Cold Air Intake: Installing a cold air intake can enhance airflow to the engine, resulting in better throttle response.
Conclusion
Enhancing your Subaru BRZ for road course performance doesn’t have to be expensive. By implementing these mods, you can achieve a significant improvement in cornering ability for under $1,000. Focus on upgrading your suspension, tires, brakes, and reducing weight while ensuring proper alignment and tuning. With these modifications, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a more thrilling and responsive driving experience on the track.